35 cats rescued in D.C. hoarding case

HRA received a call Thursday about a D.C. residence with a large number of cats. Officer Timothy Moyer went to investigate the residence as a potential hoarding situation.

Upon arrival, Moyer found approximately 35 cats in the residence in various states of poor condition, ranging from flea infestation to infected bite wounds. A few appeared to be malnourished. The owner of the cats became agitated by Moyer’s inquiries on scene and stated she was moving out and began packing her bags. She surrendered the cats to the officer before she left.

“Providing care, food and medical necessities can sometimes be overwhelming for pet owners, but with 35 cats, it can be extremely difficult in a residential situation. In fact, it’s a violation of D.C. code to have more than seven animals in your care without first obtaining a hobby permit,” said HRA’s Vice President of Field Service, Chris Schindler.

The cats were transferred to HRA Thursday night. The cats will be given a veterinary examination and treated for any conditions that might exist. When they are medically and behaviorally cleared, they will be made available for adoption.

The case is under investigation as a possible Humane Law Enforcement matter.